1974 Chevrolet Corvette

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The popularity of America’s Sports Car, the Chevrolet Corvette, exploded during the 1970s, thanks to the Corvette’s combination of sleek styling, V8 power, and handling prowess. Even with the U.S. auto industry reeling from the gas crunch in 1974, Corvette sales rose to 37,502 units (from 30,464), only 5,474 of which were convertibles.

Soft color-keyed urethane bumpers were now fitted front and back, and the rear bumper was made in two parts, split vertically — all future bumpers would be one-piece. Performance remained modest; the base 350ci V8 generated 195 horsepower, but options included the 270-hp 454ci big-block, which was built for smooth power, not all-out performance. Automatic transmission, power windows, air conditioning, power steering, and tilt/telescopic steering column were fitted to the majority of 1974 Chevrolet Corvettes, although it would be final year for the 454, catalytic converters, and true dual exhausts, and the second-to-the-last year for the convertible option until 1985.

Chevrolet’s 1974 sale brochure called the updated Corvette a car “for anyone who truly loves the road and where it goes ... A car that combines the road holding and handling qualities of a true sports car with the grace and refinement of a personal luxury car.”